Things to do in London when summer stays wet

By Rebecca Felgate
7 Aug, 2012, 10:22

With any luck London will be bathed in warm, glorious sunshine each and every summer… unfortunately, being the capital city of the notoriously rainy England, summertime does not always go according to plan! Nonetheless, London is one of the greatest sources of culture in the world, with plenty of activities to make any trip great, come rain or shine! However, as nobody likes getting caught short in a shower (especially without a brolly!), we have put together a list of the perfect activities for each weather scenario!

When the sun is shining:

Well obviously this is the ideal scenario! If this is the case then you are extremely lucky and should take the opportunity to visit one of London’s many parks or gardens. For instance, St James’ Park is perfect for those who want to bask in picturesque sunshine! With a lakeside view of Buckingham palace, this park combines culture with relaxation. Alternatively, Regents Park is beautiful, vast and filled with activity! You can choose between soaking up the sun besides the park’s rose garden, taking a trip to London Zoo (yes, there is a ZOO in the park!) or visiting Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre for a little culture whilst you soak up the rays. Either way, we suggest you accompany any of these activities with an ice cream!

When the sun is out but rain is looming:

The most common of the English summertime weather states! In this situation, the Southbank is best explored. You can walk along London’s Thames Path whilst enjoying the momentary sun, or even dine alfresco in one of the river side eateries. When it starts raining there is plenty around you to do whilst you avoid the showers. For example you could visit London’s (undercover) biggest food market, Borough Market, or you could pop into the Southbank centre and listen to one of the free orchestras, or pop in the Hayward Gallery for some free art exhibitions (similarly, the Tate Modern is a short stroll away) Alternatively, you could always take shelter in one of the Southbank’s excellent pubs and enjoy a great British ale!

When it is cloudy and cold:

Unfortunately, even though the calendar may say it is summer, the weather does not always listen. If you find yourself in London in a chill, there are many museum’s, galleries and exhibitions you can spend the whole day in! For example, Madame Tussauds and the London Dungeons have always been great tourists destinations. Alternatively there is the (free) Science Museum, Tate Modern or Britain, The Victoria and Albert museum…the list is endless.

When it’s downright pouring.

Sometimes when the weather is vile you will just want to haul yourself up inside for a few hours to avoid the worst of it. However, this does not mean that you can’t be entertained and enjoy yourself! The best way to spend a wet afternoon in style is to visit one of the luxurious theatres on London’s famous West End. With countless show’s to choose from, you will be spoilt for choice! If you want a classic, feel good musical and appreciate a bit of irony, we recommend Singin’ in the Rain! Having received rave critic and audience reviews, this show will have you replicating the spectacular splash dancing as soon as you get out of the theatre! Just remember not to forget your poncho!

Whatever happens, whatever the weather, there is so much to do in this great city that we guarantee you will have fun whatever the weather!

This article was written by Rebecca Felgate. Rebecca is a London based theatre journalist and arts enthusiast who reviews for Cheap Theatre Tickets. Rebecca loves nothing more than the glass of wine and slice of culture combination.